Gabler, Schneider to Explain Changes to Small Games of Chance Law

HARRISBURG – Changes to Pennsylvania’s small games of chance law will be examined in a seminar to be hosted Wednesday, Dec. 5, by state Rep. Matt Gabler (R-Clearfield/Elk) and Elk County Treasurer Peggy Schneider. The event begins at 6:30 p.m., at South St. Marys Street Elementary School, 370 S. St. Marys St., St. Marys.

“This event is open to the public and we especially encourage all small games of chance license holders to attend,” Gabler said. “Many people have questions about recent changes made to the small games of chance law. We hope this seminar enables local organizations to work through the changes.”

The most recent of these changes are the result of Act 184 of 2012, which was signed into law Oct. 24.

“This bill permits the use of 50/50 drawings for fundraising purposes in certain circumstances, and also exempts some groups from reporting requirements,” added Gabler.

Earlier this year, Act 2 of 2012 amended the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act to create new definitions, increase prize limits, and provide for additional rules and regulations for licensing of organizations. Gabler said most of the confusion about small games of chance stem from a misunderstanding of what was previously in the act.

“When Act 2 became law, it brought attention to many provisions of the Small Games of Chance Act that had always been in effect but often overlooked,” he added. “As a result, we passed Act 184 to fix some of the problems that were identified. Now, we want to make this information available so our clubs and organizations can have their questions answered.”

Schneider appreciates the patience license holders have had in working with her office under the new law.

“Our local clubs and organizations which hold licenses do a lot of work to raise money in a lawful manner for charitable purposes,” she said. “I truly appreciate their working with me and my staff to adjust to the new procedures, and I want to keep working to make this process as easy on them as possible.”

Schneider and a representative from the State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement will lead the question and answer session.